Unity through Division: Political Islam, Representation and Democracy in Indonesia

Indonesia is experiencing democratic backsliding, but Indonesians are more satisfied with their country's democratic practice due to political representation. This ideological cleavage between pluralism and Islamism has been a strength of Indonesia's democracy, allowing for a degree of representation not often observed in young democracies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Indonesia, like many other countries worldwide, is currently facing a concerning trend of democratic backsliding characterized by a toxic mix of religious sectarianism, polarization, and executive overreach. Despite this challenging situation, it is noteworthy that Indonesians have become increasingly satisfied with their country's democratic practices. This paradoxical outcome raises several intriguing questions.

In order to explore this puzzle, Unity Through Division delves into an overlooked aspect of democracy in Indonesia: political representation. In this country, a longstanding ideological cleavage between pluralism and Islamism has shaped political competition. While this cleavage may be divisive, it has played a significant role in strengthening Indonesia's democracy. It has given meaning to political participation and allowed for a degree of representation that is not often observed in young democracies.

While the recent resurgence of radical Islam and political polarization in Indonesian politics may have contributed to democratic erosion, these factors have also clarified political alternatives and improved perceptions of representation. This, in turn, has bolstered democratic participation and satisfaction.

This compelling book effectively challenges the prevailing wisdom regarding the role of Islam in Indonesian political life and offers a fresh analysis for debates on democratic backsliding in Indonesia and beyond. By examining the dynamics of political representation in Indonesia, Unity Through Division provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of democracy and its resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 528g
ISBN-13: 9781009203036